Corinthians president vows to keep Paulinho

Mario Gobbi intends to hand the Inter target a new contract following his impressive displays at the Copa Libertadores, while midfielder Ralf is also expected to stay put

Corinthians president Mario Gobbi has asserted that Paulinho will not leave this summer, as he plans to reward the midfielder with improved terms.

The 23-year-old joined the Timao from Bragantino two years ago and helped his team to the Brasileirao title last year, before establishing himself as a key figure in the side that won their maiden Copa Libertadores earlier this month.

His performances have seen him linked with a move to Inter, despite the player distancing himself from the switch, but Gobbi is in no mood to relinquish the youngster, as he hopes a new deal will convince him to stay, along with colleague Ralf.

"Paulinho and Ralf will stay at Corinthians," the president told reporters. "Corinthians is a meritocracy. We have done this since December 2007.

"Those players who raise their levels, they will get their salary raised to a new level. I want everyone to be happy and satisfied at Corinthians, playing with the same willingness they showed in the Libertadores."